*Note: This blog post and the attached video refer to some adult themes.
I’m a book snob. I admit it. There are certain types of books that I turn my nose up at. Specifically, romance novels. I wouldn’t be caught dead reading one of those mass market paperbacks with the scantily clad characters on the cover. I used to be adamant about this, but lately, I’ve realized that my judgy attitude has kept me from enjoying some really good books!
When it comes to recommending romance novels, I always feel like a deer in headlights. I realized this was a big weakness for me, so this year I made a goal to start reading romance novels and becoming more familiar with the genre. Imagine my surprise when I found that I was actually enjoying the books I was reading!
PBS has created some fun videos exploring different genres in conjunction with its Great American Read program. Their video, An Ode to the Romance Novel, is an entertaining (and quick!) summary about the romance genre and the stereotypes it faces.
The video points out that while romance is the highest grossing fiction genre, it is also the one that gets the most derision and shame. I am certainly guilty of this. I thought romance novels were predictable, cliched, and filled with helpless women, bad writing and ridiculous descriptions of sex. Ok, some do fit that description. But I have found that there are some very talented writers putting out good writing that features smart, outspoken, strong female characters. Yes, they are predictable. You know with a romance novel, you’re going to get a happy ending. I don’t know about you, but lately, the world seems so crazy, sometimes I need a happy ending.
If you don’t think you like romance, this reformed book snob recommends you give it a chance. I am still sticking to my dislike of the covers, but now I know that you really can’t judge a book by its cover. Below are some of the romance novels that I’ve thoroughly enjoyed and highly recommend. I know we have some avid romance readers in Deerfield, so if you have a favorite romance author or book, I’d love to hear your suggestions!
My Romance Suggestions:
Hate to Want You
by Alisha Rai
An Extraordinary Union
by Alyssa Cole
When a Scot Ties the Knot
by Tessa Dare
Tempest
by Beverly Jenkins
A Distant Heart
by Sonali Dev
Wicked and the Wallflower
by Sarah MacLean
